A new sand-slitting system is being used to treat the four natural turf pitches constructed by Blakedown at West Bromwich Albion Football Club. This process incorporates Nutrovate - a product recently launched by Blakedown specifically for the natural turf market.

The process introduces Nutrovate and kiln dried sand in vertical columns into the ground at a depth of 10mm. Blakedown says this 'new generation rootzone substrate' has been formulated to meet the demands and high performance expectations in the management and maintenance of top quality turf grass.

The company says the system has already been used at Doncaster Rugby Club in the renovation of its competition pitch. Work is now starting at Millfield School, Somerset. Details: www.blakedown.co.uk